Different Types of Decorative Wall Tapestries and How to Use Them in Your Home
Tired of staring at those plain, white-washed walls? Or maybe your space just feels a little too... empty? One of the easiest and most creative ways to bring life and a little personality to your walls is by hanging a beautiful wall tapestry. It is a heavy, decorative art piece made of cloth instead of paper or canvas, often woven with pictorial designs. They come in all kinds of styles—some are simple and modern, while others have bold patterns, boho vibes, or even scenes inspired by history.
With so many options available, it's easy to be confused about which tapestry style would fit your vibe and interiors. In this blog, we’ve rounded up the top types of wall tapestries to help you find the perfect one.
Different Types of Wall Tapestries
Let’s take a look at the top popular wall tapestries that have been stylish for years and are still trending:
Bohemian Tapestries
If you love a relaxed, free-spirited vibe, bohemian (or “boho”) tapestries are a perfect fit. These often feature mandalas, paisley patterns, sun and moon designs, or elephants and other animals. They tend to have rich colors like deep reds, oranges, and purples, but you can also find softer pastel versions. Boho tapestries work especially well in rooms with plants, wooden furniture, or other boho-style decor.
Medieval or Historical Tapestries
Want to bring a little piece of history into your home? Medieval or historical tapestries are like stepping back in time—right from your living room. These tapestries feature scenes from history, mythology, or ancient times—like knights, castles, royal hunts, or famous battles in rich, dark colors like burgundy, navy, and gold. Originally, they were hung in castles to tell stories of bravery and show off wealth. A medieval tapestry can make a bold statement if you love history art or want your space to feel like a grand hall. These pair beautifully with antique or wooden furniture, leather chairs, and vintage decor.
Nature-Inspired Tapestries
As the name suggests, these tapestries feature natural scenes—think forests, mountains, waterfalls, beaches, sunsets, and even botanical prints with flowers, leaves, and trees. Some designs include animals like birds, deer, or marine life that bring wildlife to your space. These nature-inspired tapestries are made with soft fabrics and rich colors and are ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, or meditation spaces.
Abstract Art Tapestries
These tapestries are all about color, shapes, and creative expression. They don’t follow a set theme but focus on visual impact through lines, patterns, and bold designs. These are ideal for modern, minimalist, or artistic spaces where you want to add personality without overwhelming the room. Abstract tapestries come in everything from bright, energetic colors to neutral, calming tones. Also, they can easily complement contemporary furniture and simple layouts.
Vintage & Retro Tapestries
Inspired by the grandeur of past decades, especially the '60s, '70s, and '80s, these tapestries embody royal and classic aesthetics. They add sophistication to any space, whether it's grand hallways or studies, featuring intricate patterns, rich textures, and designs reminiscent of the Renaissance, Baroque, and Victorian periods. When paired with antique furniture, chandeliers, or velvet drapes, they create a regal ambiance while preserving a nostalgic charm.
Cultural or Ethnic Tapestries
Cultural and ethnic tapestries showcase patterns, symbols, and artwork from different regions worldwide. You’ll often see Indian mandalas, African tribal prints, Native American motifs, and Moroccan designs. These tapestries are rich in history and often carry cultural significance. Hanging them in your living room or entryway can bring a global, worldly vibe and create a sense of connection to different cultures and traditions. They go beautifully with natural materials like wood and woven textiles.
Creative Ways to Use Wall Tapestries for Decoration
Wall tapestries aren’t just for hanging flat on the wall—they’re super versatile. Here are the top ways to use them for decoration:
Ceiling Decor
Tapestries can be secured to the ceiling to create an elegant and canopied effect. This styling idea works particularly well in rooms with high ceilings or dorm-style settings with occupied walls. Use adhesive hooks, thumbtacks or curtain rods to drape the large tapestry across the ceiling.
Headboard Alternative
Instead of investing in a bulky headboard, a medium-sized tapestry can be hung behind the bed as a stylish and budget-friendly alternative. Secure it with a curtain rod or wall-mounted hooks to frame your sleeping space with an artistic touch. Also, a tapestry can be easily changed, allowing you to update your decor without much effort.
Furniture Covering
Tapestries can breathe new life into old furniture by serving as slipcovers for sofas, chairs, or tables. If you have a worn-out couch or a plain coffee table, simply drape a tapestry over it and tuck the edges neatly or secure it with clips. This is an excellent way to refresh furniture without making a permanent commitment.
Window Curtain Alternative
Instead of conventional curtains, a tapestry can serve as a unique window covering. This is a great option for adding extra privacy while still allowing soft, filtered light to enter the room. Simply attach the tapestry to a curtain rod or hang it in place with clip rings. With the variety of designs available, you can choose one that complements your decor, whether it’s bohemian, vintage, or modern aesthetic.
Conclusion
Wall tapestries aren’t just pretty fabric on a wall—they’re a whole vibe! The right tapestry can instantly breathe life into a dull space. And if you want something that’s uniquely you? Quality Tapestries lets you design a custom tapestry woven with rich, heirloom-quality fabric on Jacquard looms. Beyond customization, our curated collection includes stunning pre-designed pieces, ranging from historical masterpieces to breathtaking nature-inspired designs. Because we believe great art should last a lifetime, every piece comes backed by our exclusive lifetime warranty—so your walls can keep telling your story for years.
